The University of Texas Permian Basin is proud to announce that Dr. Perla Ábrego, associate professor of Spanish, has been selected as a recipient of the University of Texas System Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award.
The prestigious award recognizes exceptional educators across the UT System who demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence, innovation, and student success. Each recipient receives a medallion, certificate, and $25,000 award.
“Receiving the Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award is deeply meaningful to me because teaching has always been part of my life,” Abrego said. “I come from a family of educators, and I grew up understanding teaching not simply as a profession, but as a commitment to others. In my own career, it has become a continuous process of learning, adapting, and growing alongside my students.”
Abrego said her students play an important role in shaping her approach to teaching.
“Every class challenges me to think differently about how we teach, how students learn, and how we can create meaningful learning experiences in a constantly changing world,” she said. “I am especially grateful to my students, whose experiences, questions, and perspectives continually shape the teacher I am becoming. This recognition is a wonderful reminder that teaching is never a finished practice; it is something we continue to build together.”
"Dr. Perla Ábrego exemplifies the profound impact an educator can have on students and the broader community," said Dr. Raj Dakshinamurthy, UTPB Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. "Her unwavering commitment to helping students reach their full potential, innovative leadership in expanding access to graduate education, and dedicated service to West Texas reflect the very best of UT Permian Basin. Dr. Ábrego continues to play a transformative role in the lives of our students, and we are proud to celebrate her commitment to teaching excellence and student success."
“Dr. Ábrego’s recognition reflects the kind of teaching excellence we value at UT Permian Basin.” We are proud to have her represent UTPB as a Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award recipient, and we are grateful for the lasting impact she has on our students and our University,” said Dr. Sandra Woodley, UTPB President.
The Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards were established by the UT System Board of Regents in 2008 to recognize faculty members who exemplify excellence in teaching and learning. The program recognizes educators who demonstrate teaching excellence through innovative, student-focused methods, effective engagement strategies, experiential learning opportunities, technology integration and a commitment to continually improving their teaching.
